Research Administrative Coordinator

UO HR Website•Eugene, OR

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Materials Science Institute fosters research and education in the structure and properties of materials, to educate in the sciences of materials, and to serve Oregon as a resource in these sciences. The MSI members are active in the study of the structure, reactivity and thermodynamics of materials in addition to their electronic and optical properties. Collaboration between Institute members and industrial research laboratories is common and an important dimension of the program. The Materials Science Institute consists of 27 faculty members, 9 faculty associates, and over 175 research support staff. Since 1985, the MSI has more than tripled the size of its research program, developed four new graduate programs in materials, and contributed to the State's prosperity through collaboration with more than 25 Oregon companies. The Materials Science Institute seeks a detail-oriented, adaptable, organized, and communicative individual to provide high-level administrative support for the Institute PI's sponsored projects. This position will require the ability to work independently, demonstrate sound judgment, and exercise creative problem-solving skills. The Research Administrative Coordinator advises MSI Principal Investigators and researchers in preparing grant proposals and maintaining post-award grant/contract accountability and compliance, in accordance with funding agency award agreements, university policy, and general accounting principles and procedures. The position interprets federal/state guidelines and requirements and provides support in adhering to legal, policy, and technical requirements. Using the Banner Financial System and Excel, this includes maintaining shared ledgers for grant funds, cost share funds, matching funds (external and internal), and other related research funds. This position will evaluate and approve purchase requisitions, place orders, process invoice payments, journal vouchers, Personal Services Contracts, and travel reimbursements. The position will verify the accuracy of receipts and expense claims, and review account files to ensure audit trail requirements are met. The position also reviews MSI faculty and research staff for compliance with requests and expense reports with the sponsor, IRS, State, and UO policies. This position is a key member of the team coordinating the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, which provides opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in active research.

Requirements

Associate's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or other related field AND
Two years of progressively responsible experience in business, finance, or compliance administration, OR
An equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to manage multiple priorities with overlapping deadlines and frequent interruptions while maintaining a high level of customer service.
Ability to meet deadlines, anticipate needs, prioritize and follow through on tasks to completion.
Ability to use independent judgment and problem-solving skills to research and resolve questions about grant preparation or post-award management of sponsored projects, and provide compliant solutions.
Strong organizational and analytical skills with close attention to detail.
Ability to communicate effectively, including in writing, with a variety of constituents.
Ability to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds as well as to develop knowledge of and respect for those from a broad array of cultures and backgrounds.
Ability to promote and enhance diversity.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or other related field.
Two (2) years of experience providing business or research administration.
Knowledge of governmental and granting agency regulations pertaining to grants and contracts, and to make recommendations to Principal Investigators to ensure compliance.
Experience in developing, editing and reviewing grant proposals and budgets for adherence to Federal, State, Sponsor, and University regulations.
Experience with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and Financial Information Systems (such as BANNER).
One or more years of experience managing research or grants in higher education, a research organization, or a related environment.
Experience with project planning.
Experience with budget and financial management.

Responsibilities

Advises MSI Principal Investigators and researchers in preparing grant proposals and maintaining post-award grant/contract accountability and compliance, in accordance with funding agency award agreements, university policy, and general accounting principles and procedures.
Interprets federal/state guidelines and requirements and provides support in adhering to legal, policy, and technical requirements.
Maintaining shared ledgers for grant funds, cost share funds, matching funds (external and internal), and other related research funds using the Banner Financial System and Excel.
Evaluate and approve purchase requisitions, place orders, process invoice payments, journal vouchers, Personal Services Contracts, and travel reimbursements.
Verify the accuracy of receipts and expense claims, and review account files to ensure audit trail requirements are met.
Reviews MSI faculty and research staff for compliance with requests and expense reports with the sponsor, IRS, State, and UO policies.
Key member of the team coordinating the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, which provides opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in active research.